'Jose can manage anywhere, there is no question about that' says Old Trafford boss

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Jose Mourinho is capable of being Manchester United manager - but would not confirm if the Portuguese should replace him.

When asked if Mourinho could replace him, he told ITV4: "He can manage anywhere, absolutely. I'm not going to put any forecasts on what is going to happen at this club. I won't last forever, but Jose can manage anywhere, there is no question about that."

Unlike Ferguson, Mourinho did not have a playing career before moving into management where he has won an incredible 21 trophies in 10 years.

"I would never think a guy who hasn't played a game could be a top coach, but then you've got to look at his personality, I think his personality does it," Ferguson added.

"He's got a marvellous, strong personality and I think that bridges that gap.

"That's incredible (his trophy haul). How old is he now? Fiftieth year. So he is 20 years behind me. At the same rate he is going to add another 42 trophies. At the current rate, (that is) amazing isn't it?"

Elisa Estrada

Unfinished business: Mourinho wants to win Champions League with an English club

Upon arriving at Chelsea Mourinho caused a media storm when he referred to himself as a 'Special One', a nickname which has stuck with him through subsequent trophy-laden spells with Inter Milan and Madrid.

He has made no secret of his desire to return to England - where he managed Chelsea before leaving in 2007 - and he told the programme he would like to win the Champions League with an English club.

Mourinho said: "In my whole career everything was perfect, the only thing I didn't do, and I hope I can do it one day, is to win a Champions League with an English club."

Meanwhile, Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas reckons his former mentor will eventually be tempted to manage his country.

"Here was a person coming out of a completely different education. He changed the way people trained. Changed the way people spoke about the game, he said.

"I have to say at this moment, if I am sitting here it is because Jose changed the legacy of Portuguese football.

"I think he will be extremely driven to win the World Cup for his country. And when that happens, when statistically he's the best manager that has ever been then I think he will finally leave the game."